Suggested options being considered to deal with the problem include a voluntary code of conduct for letting agencies, which could feature measures such as restricting signage to one sign per agency per street and using smaller boards.

Mr Williams said: “Not only are they numerous in number, but these signs have become a permanent fixture on many properties across Bangor, adding to pre-existing concerns about neighbourhood safety and the negative visual impact on streets.

“People in Bangor feel very strongly about the proliferation of these signs, from local residents and community groups to students and even the estate agents themselves.

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“I’m pleased there is already joined-up thinking on this issue and pay tribute to the work already undertaken by Gwynedd Council and partner organisations in Bangor to seek a practical solution to this pressing local issue.”

Cllr Catrin Wager, who represents Bangor’s Menai ward on Gwynedd Council, said: “A substantial part of my ward is a designated conservation area, and streets such as College Road should be providing both local residents and visitors with a visually appealing approach to the university.

“Unfortunately, the excessive presence of these signs has led to some streets looking particularly cluttered and untidy, whilst also sending out the wrong message about empty properties in the city.”

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A council spokesperson said: “The substantial number of ‘To Let’ signs around Bangor is a concern and we are grateful to the MP for supporting the work we are currently carrying out to tackle the problem.

“The council’s planning department has recently written to local letting agents to highlight the concerns raised by members of the local community about this matter, including local councillors, the city council, groups associated with Bangor University, the police and the local AM.

“The planning authority has received a number of complaints about the serious negative visual impact of the signs on Bangor, as well as the negative impact they are having on the image of the city and the university as a place to live, work and study.

“Concerns have also been raised that these signs could lead to a potential increase in crime and affect the safety of the residents of the houses, as well as the security of the properties themselves.

“Officers from the council have invited local letting agents to meet to discuss this matter, so that both sides can have a better understanding of why there has been an increase in this type of signage and their knock-on negative effect on the area.”